Victorianism to Modernism

This course is designed to introduce to students the main cultural movements and writers at the turn of the nineteenth century. It will cover such themes as the influence of Darwinian evolutionary theory, fears of degeneration, decadence, aestheticism and naturalism. The relationship of the sense of a culture in crisis at the end of the Victorian era to the rise of Modernism in the early twentieth century will be explored.

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of the module, students should be able to:
- Show a good knowledge of the main cultural movements and writers at the turn of the nineteenth century.
- Demonstrate an ability to read and understand a select number of exemplary texts in close detail
- Demonstrate knowledge of the material and historical contexts that shape the making of literature and the circulation of literature
- Show an ability to identify and analyse recurring themes and tensions in the literature of the period and within the relevant critical debates
- Write responses to exam questions, making convincing arguments based on reading of primary and secondary texts
- Identify and use relevant subject-specific electronic resources and other library and archival resources

Teaching & Learning Methods:
- Lectures: 20 hours
- Independent student activities: 60 hours

Assessment:
- University scheduled written examination: 100%